“As we observe this holiday season and gaze upon the beginning of a new year with renewed spirits, we wish you all the peace and joy of the holidays. May the good Lord continue to grace us all with an abundance of good tidings. To all, a blessed Christmas and a New Year filled with prosperity!” Gov. Benigno R. Fitial and Lt. Gov. Eloy S. Inos said in a statement.
The mayors, for their part, acknowledged that the people are facing tough times as they ask for patience and understanding in light of the government’s limited resources.
Saipan Mayor Donald G. Flores thanked God for allowing him and his staff to provide service to the community.
“We will continue to do as much as we can,” he said. “We will make sure that the people are not forgotten.
He wishes all CNMI officials, members of the community, particularly the students, soldiers and other residents who are now in the U.S. and different parts of the world, a joyous Christmas.
Flores also thanked the business sector for its partnership with his office in community development programs.
“I also give special thanks to my staff for working hard and multi-tasking to keep things going,” he said.
Northern Islands Mayor Tobias DLC. Aldan said as “your humble servant,” he will continue serving his constituents to the best of his ability.
“We all have felt the effects of the crisis that has gripped the world’s economies; most especially here at home. From payless or partial paydays to budget and working hour cuts, I must say that it was a rough sea sailing,” he said.
He encouraged residents to always include the soldiers in their prayers.
He added, “Christmas is so much more than parties and presents. It’s about spending time with loved ones, being thankful for what you have and remembering the birth of Christ and the light He brought into the world. Let us share this light with those who are suffering hardship, illness, grief or loneliness.”
Tinian Mayor Ramond Dela Cruz is hoping that the economy will improve next year.
He said the government and the people should work harder to overcome the hardship the CNMI is facing.
Ramon B. Camacho, Saipan and Northern Islands municipal council chairman, said sharing love is more valuable than giving gifts on Christmas.
“People are struggling in this economy so buying gifts is not really an option for a lot of us,” he said.
He encourages community members to join the Neighborhood Watch Task Force so that “we can help ensure that we will have a meaningful and peaceful Christmas and New Year.”
Rota Mayor Melchor A. Mendiola said “we should always count our blessings” despite the economic hardship the CNMI is facing.
He noted the difficulties that the Holy Family went through.
“Let us give thanks to the Lord and celebrate Christmas in the spirit of love, peace and harmony,” he said.
He added, “Other people in other places are suffering more than what the people in the CNMI are experiencing now.”
Rota Rep. Teresita A. Santos urges the community to “work with one spirit in restoring what we had been taught way back then. Jesus is the only reason for the season. He was, is and will always be the greatest gift that God sent to us to save us from our sins.”
Santos said “we should celebrate the Yuletide season with thanksgiving in our hearts to God the Father.”
“Let this spirit linger on as we give not only to those who have but those who lack, and to love not only the lovable but to love our enemy as well,” she added.
Despite the uncertainty that will be ushered by the new year, she said God has promised “not to leave us nor forsake us.”
“Let us embrace His assurance and with confidence in our Creator, we can walk boldly into the new year. Have hope in God,” she added.
